Napa Valley 2009

The 2009 vintage in California had a mix of weather conditions that kept growers busy all year long, but in the end resulted in an average-sized crop of very good wines. Ripe, rich, and full, rounder and more supple in their tannins than the 2008 and a notch under 2007 — but the best are excellent.

A slow start to the year was mitigated by good conditions through the summer; a couple of hot spells in August and September allowed the grapes to catch up.

The harvest started just ahead of normal, and things looked great until the 13th of October, when almost 4 inches of rain fell in a day. Fortunately, the rain was predicted well in advance, and many growers accelerated picking and were able to bring in much of the crop before the rain, especially Pinot Noir and other earlier-ripening grapes. The weather after the rain would be critical, as the risk of rot and dilution of flavors became a major concern for grapes not brought in before the rain. In most regions the weather improved and dried up the vineyards, extending hang-time into late October, and the majority of growers reported post-rain fruit coming in healthy and in good shape.

Key Dates

February

More than 13 inches of rain falls, enough to replenish depleted aquifers but not to undo the larger effects of the ongoing drought

March

Bud break during mid-month

May

Flowering during mid-month

September

Harvest for Sauvignon Blanc begins during first week, Merlot and Chardonnay during third week, Cabernet at month’s end

October

Harvest winds down towards month’s end; a total of 5.5 inches of rain falls throughout

August

Veraison early in the month

October

Almost 4 inches of rain falls; many accelerated harvest to get fruit in before the rain. Harvest pauses to wait for grapes to rebalance and dry out